Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque

Associate Professor, Director of Oral Viral Pathogenesis Group, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, USA
Country of Birth: USA

Educational Background: DDS, SUNY Buffalo, USA; PhD Microbiology and Immunology, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, USA

I work in science because I wanted to understand the mechanisms underlying the diseases that we see clinically. Why are these pathogens so successful? Without this understanding, our ability for optimal treatment is compromised.

My primary job responsibilities are research, service and teaching. In research, I work with teams of clinicians and scientists to study the oral maladies in people with diseases like AIDS and cancer.  Our research laboratory which is composed of research scientists, post docs and students, focuses on the pathogenesis of DNA tumor viruses in the oral cavity. For service, I provide dental care to medically compromised patients. I teach in both classroom and in clinical settings.

Naysayers are often a significant obstacle. To overcome this challenge, I've pressed on...pursuing what I believe in.

Every individual's journey is a unique one. It is fine to be different and to pursue your interests in a manner that suits you.

If you are interested in a STEM career, try it. If you enjoy it, employ the Nike philosophy: Just do it. If you can dream it, do what it takes to actualize and make your dreams reality.